Hot water is one of those comforts we often take for granted. But water heating can amount to 12% of your monthly energy use. You can save with some simple tips. That leaky faucet, for example, can lead to gallons of wasted water and create a “drain” on your monthly bill.
Here are some water heating tips to help you save energy and money:
- Lower the temperature. For most households, a 120-degree setting on your water heater may work fine.
- Insulate the tank. Install water heater wrap, also known as water heater blanket, per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Maintain. Drain 1 to 2 gallons from the bottom of your water heater each year to reduce sediment buildup.
- Insulate exposed hot water lines. In addition to insulating the tank itself, consider adding insulation to the first 6 feet of both the hot and cold water pipes connected to the unit.
- Fix dripping faucets. You can significantly reduce hot water use by simply repairing leaks in fixtures, such as faucets and shower heads. A leak of one drip per second wastes 1,661 gallons of water and can cost up to $35 per year.
- Use either cold or warm water for most laundry loads. Cold water is always sufficient for rinsing.
- Fill the dishwasher before starting it and use a shorter cycle.
- Install non-aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads. Purchase quality low-flow fixtures for around $10 to $20 a piece and achieve a water savings of 25% to 60%.